How to Compare Two Fractions
Example: Insert the correct symbol, < or = or >, between these fractions:
You can cross-multiply.
9 ∙ 7 is 63
7
32
32 ∙ 2 is 64
2
9
Since 63 < 64, we can say
7
2
<
32
9
7
2
32
9
or you can rewrite the fractions
with a common denominator
7
32
2
9
The LCM of 32 and 9 is 288.
Convert the fractions.
63
64
288 288
Compare numerators.
Since 63 < 64, we can say
7
2
<
32
9
or you can use calculator
decimal approximations
7/32
.21875
2/9
.2222222222
Compare
.21875
.2222222222
Clearly
.21875 < .2222222222
Therefore
7
2
<
32
9
CompareFractions.docx
11/29/2014 4:03:00 PM - D.R.S.